• I have been instructed on how to secure a load to a lifting hook.  
• I believe a Rigger certificate is important.
• Before I start lifting, I check the lifting gear to see if it is damaged

This toolbox is about safely securing loads. Incorrect use of lifting gear or lifting gear of poor quality could cause accidents and unsafe situations.

• The load falls from the crane.
• It is difficult to restrain the load, resulting in:
  • risk of entrapment
  • impact with objects such as  scaffolds

When choosing a lifting device the following needs to be taken into account:

• the weight;
• the size and;
• the structure.

The lifting device must be suitable for the load that needs to be lifted.

Usually, one uses steel cables, slings, chains, clamps, tongs and lifting straps.

Do not use:

• Unapproved lifting gear;
• Deformed, torn or broken lifting gear;
• Lifting gear showing signs of wear;
• Lifting straps that have knots in them;
• Pleated or frayed lifting straps;
• Self-made lifting gear;
• Rusty lifting gear;
• A chain of which the link(s) is (are) not in one line.

Ensure that:

• only one person is instructing the driver. Agree on this beforehand;
• the packaging material, plastic and such, is cleaned up immediately (risk of sliding);
• you never stand on top of or below a load;
• the lifting area is cordoned off with fences or tape;
• when securing a load, the lifting equipment cannot be damaged by bending over sharp edges. Use edge protection if needed;
• no loose materials are on top of the load.

The use of lifting gear:

• use proper lifting gear;
• never use a load chain or sling chain by fixing them around the load (use a steel wire sling or a lifting strap);
• use a tiller rope to guide the load;
• use dunnage that is wide enough to be able to easily remove the sling from under a load;

Below an instruction on how to secure a steel rebar cage.

• The hook is secured to the coil around which the mat has been rolled